Varanasi–Kolkata Expressway to Transform Freight Travel with Key Village Connections

Route Map, Villages, Construction Update & Truck Movement Impact on connectivity plans 

India’s highway infrastructure is getting a powerful upgrade with the Varanasi–Ranchi–Kolkata Expressway. Stretching 610 km, this six-lane greenfield expressway is part of the Bharatmala Pariyojna and aims to connect eastern states. With a budget of ₹35,000 crore, the project is designed to ease freight traffic, especially trucks, and enhance regional connectivity by 2027.

Route Coverage, Truck Benefits & Local Impact

The expressway begins at Barhuli (Chandauli, UP) and ends at Uluberia (Howrah, WB), passing through key districts like Kaimur, Rohtas, Gaya, Bokaro, and Bankura. Villages along the route will see massive development in road access and economic activity. 

For truckers, the new corridor cuts travel time from Varanasi to Kolkata to just 6–7 hours, nearly half of the current duration. This means quicker goods delivery, reduced fuel costs, and smoother travel through dedicated lanes, flyovers, and bypasses.

Thirteen packages have been planned for construction, many of which are already underway. Companies like NKS Projects and PNC Infratech are actively working across multiple zones. So far, 89 villages have cleared land acquisition, with compensation worth ₹338 crore distributed. The expressway will feature 6 flyovers, 44 underpasses, and 3 toll plazas for efficient traffic movement.

Official Statement & Timeline

The foundation was laid by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in February 2024, marking the official start of this national highway project, now declared NH-319B. According to NHAI, the project uses the EPC model to ensure faster delivery and strict quality control. 

The journey started in 2019 with proposals, followed by tenders, bidding, and land camps across states. Full completion is targeted by 2027, with future plans to integrate this expressway into the larger Mumbai–Kolkata freight corridor for seamless truck travel.

Follow us for the Latest Infra Industry Updates

Facebook -  https://www.facebook.com/infrajunction/ 
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/infra_junction/